Delhi: Former Australian veteran all -rounder Shane Watson was surprised by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) strategy against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He raised the question and said that what is the argument of batting great wicketkeeper batsman Mahendra Singh Dhoni in a lower order? Chasing the target of 197 runs, CSK had to face a crushing defeat by 50 runs. Watson believes that captain Ruturaj Gaikwad should also start the innings.
In this match, CSK sent Ravichandran Ashwin to bat before Dhoni, while Dhoni himself landed at number ninth. He played an explosive innings of 30* not out in 16 balls, but by then it was too late. Watson said, “CSK fans come to see Dhoni batting. If he had played more 15 balls, the result could have been something else.”
Watson said, “I would like to see Dhoni playing above in batting order. In my opinion he should have come before Ashwin. He has shown in the past years that he can still bat brilliantly. The team should send Dhoni up so that he can see his full force.”
Watson also expressed disappointment over the decision to send Ruturaj to number three. He said, “Gaikwad is a great opener, yet he was sent later. The shot played against Hazlewood by him reflects that he was under pressure.”
He also questioned Deepak Hooda and Sam Karan’s batting order and said that CSK needs to change its team combination.
Dhoni’s wicketkeeping praised
However, both Watson and Akash Chopra appreciated Dhoni’s wicketkeeping. Watson said, “Even at the age of 43, Dhoni’s agility is amazing. He stumping in a moment, which says that he is still in the best form.”
At the same time, Akash Chopra also said, “If Dhoni had come to bat first, CSK would have a better chance to win.”
Significantly, Dhoni is counted among the greatest finishers in the world. Now the thing to see will be whether Mahi takes off the upper order in the upcoming matches or not?
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